Placental Pathology, An Issue of Surgical Pathology Clinics, 1e (The Clinics: Surgery)

Unraveling the Complexities of Placental Pathology: A Comprehensive Guide

The rise in pregnancies among older and medically compromised women has sparked a growing demand for specialized placental pathology services. This emerging field plays a pivotal role in guiding neonatal care, assessing risks, and optimizing outcomes for both infants and their mothers.

To address this critical need, “Essential Gross Examination of the Placenta” is a comprehensive text in the Surgical Pathology Clinics series. This esteemed publication combines an abundance of high-quality images with meticulously detailed steps for placental examination. It also delves into highly specialized topics, including:

Placenta Accreta and Percreta: A Perilous Maternal Complication

• Clear and concise descriptions of these life-threatening conditions where the placenta abnormally adheres to the uterine wall.
• Discussion of the associated risks and management strategies to ensure maternal safety.

Ascending Infection – Acute Chorioamnionitis: Threatening Fetal Health

• In-depth analysis of this bacterial infection that ascends from the cervix or vagina to the amniotic sac and membranes.
• Exploration of its impact on fetal development and the significance of prompt diagnosis and treatment.

Maternal Floor Infarction: A Silent Hazard

• Explanation of this placental lesion characterized by sudden loss of blood supply to a portion of the maternal floor.
• Detailed review of its causes and potential consequences for maternal and fetal well-being.

Massive Perivillous Fibrin Deposition: A Clue to Abnormal Pregnancy

• Description of this condition where excessive fibrin deposits form around the placental villi.
• Examination of its association with pregnancy complications such as preeclampsia and intrauterine growth restriction.

Umbilical Cord Pathology: Ensuring Vital Fetal Supply

• Exhaustive exploration of abnormalities in the structure and function of the umbilical cord, the lifeline between mother and fetus.
• Review of the findings that indicate compromised fetal oxygen supply and the need for prompt intervention.

Monozygotic Twinning: Unveiling the Complexities of Shared Gestation

• Comprehensive discussion of the unique placental morphology and complications associated with monozygotic twin pregnancies.
• Examination of the implications for twin development and the potential risks that require close monitoring.

Fetal Thrombotic Vasculopathy, Neonatal Stroke, and Other Sequelae: Understanding the Impact

• Detailed exploration of fetal vascular disorders that can disrupt blood flow to the placenta and developing organs.
• Analysis of the associated neurologic complications, including neonatal stroke, and the long-term implications for infant health.

This indispensable text is meticulously crafted by a team of leading experts in placental pathology, led by Dr. Rebecca Baergen, a renowned specialist in fetal, placental, gynecologic, and perinatal pathology. Dr. Baergen’s visionary guidance and collaboration with her esteemed mentor, Dr. Kurt Benirschke, a pioneer in this field, ensure that this publication is an authoritative and indispensable resource for all professionals involved in the care of pregnant women and infants.

Through its wealth of clinical photographs, histology slides, and expert insights, “Essential Gross Examination of the Placenta” empowers readers to navigate the complexities of placental pathology and make informed decisions that safeguard the well-being of both mothers and their precious newborns.